XiFin Supports Congressional Action to Delay Medicare Cuts, Advocates for Lasting Reform

The American Clinical Laboratory Association (ACLA) has commended Congress for providing much-needed relief to clinical laboratories by delaying Medicare payment cuts set to take effect in January 2025. Passed on September 25, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act 2025 grants a one-year reprieve from cuts of up to 15% on approximately eight hundred laboratory services. This temporary measure marks the fifth time Congress has intervened to delay payment reductions under the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA).

While this immediate threat to laboratory reimbursement has been averted, the repeated short-term delays indicate the urgent need for a permanent, sustainable reform to the Medicare Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule. In the ACLA statement, President Susan Van Meter expressed appreciation for the bipartisan support from Congress but emphasized that long-term changes are essential for ensuring patient access to diagnostic services and fostering innovation in the field.

XiFin supports initiatives to prevent reimbursement cuts that could disrupt access to vital diagnostic services and hinder diagnostic provider operations. We recognize that fair and stable reimbursement policies are critical to the healthcare system’s ability to deliver accurate and timely diagnostic data, which informs patient care and drives clinical decision-making. As a revenue cycle management (RCM) leader, we work closely with healthcare providers to navigate the complexities of reimbursement while advocating for policies that protect patient access to care.

The systemic issues with PAMA threaten providers’ long-term financial sustainability and ability to innovate. A fair and predictable payment structure is essential to fostering a sustainable environment for developing new and advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services. The repercussions of repeated fee schedule cuts extend beyond financial challenges for providers. The ongoing uncertainty affects providers’ ability to invest in new technology and expand services.

Without permanent solutions, patient access to essential healthcare services is at risk.

Take Action: How to Get Involved

Now is the time for the diagnostic community to come together and advocate for sustainable Medicare payment reform. The reprieve allows healthcare providers and industry stakeholders to raise awareness about the need for lasting solutions.

1. Support Legislative Efforts: Engage with legislators to express the importance of reforming the PAMA fee schedule. Encourage them to champion long-term changes that stabilize laboratory payments and ensure access to vital testing.
2. Participate in Advocacy Campaigns: Join forces with organizations like ACLA, National Independent Laboratory Association (NILA), and XiFin in advocacy efforts. Contributing your voice helps to amplify the message that sustainable reform is not just a financial issue but a matter of patient care and public health.
3. Stay Informed: Follow updates on Medicare payment policy and healthcare regulations. Awareness of the latest developments helps you better understand how these changes affect your operations and enable you to take timely action.
4. Submit Public Comments: Share your insights and expertise when opportunities arise to comment on regulatory proposals. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) often invites feedback on changes that impact reimbursement and reporting requirements.

XiFin remains committed to driving meaningful change, providing clients with the resources to navigate evolving policies. Together, we can shape a sustainable future for healthcare providers and safeguard patient access to critical healthcare services.